Pretoria, South Africa: It's about volunteering! Monday 18 July is Mandela Day, and it's one of the landmarks during this special year for volunteers.

The Mandela Day campaign message is simple: Nelson Mandela gave 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity. The campaign is asking is that everyone gives 67 minutes of their time, whether it’s supporting their chosen charity or serving their local community.;

Mandela Day is a call to action for individuals – for people everywhere – to take responsibility for changing the world into a better place, one small step at a time, just as Mr. Mandela did.

In a statement for the Day, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the following:

Everybody remembers – and, indeed, needs – an inspirational figure who has played a signal role in their lives. Nelson Mandela has been that role model for countless people around the world.

Nelson Mandela has been a lawyer and a freedom fighter, a political prisoner, a peacemaker and president. A healer of nations and a mentor to generations, Nelson Mandela – or Madiba as he is affectionately known by millions – is a living symbol of wisdom, courage and integrity.

As we celebrate his 93rd birthday and this second Nelson Mandela International Day, I join with the Nelson Mandela Foundation in encouraging people around the globe to perform 67 minutes of public service on Mandela Day – one minute for every year of Mandela’s own service to humanity.

Nelson Mandela himself once said: “We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.” Let us embrace this message. Tutor a child. Feed the hungry. Volunteer your time at a local hospital or community centre. Make the world a better place.

Together, the best way we can thank Nelson Mandela for his work is by taking action for others and inspiring change.